Beads are ornaments that were considered value objects, informal
currencies, bride wealth and grave gifts in ancient times, and still is
in some cultures today. There are many interesting tales behind their
use, particular, in Borneo, where the bead tradition goes back to the
very remote past. The variety of beads, the material from which they
are made, their various colors, and the values attributed to them, all
make up a fascinating field of study.
Among the ethnic people of Sarawak, such as the Orang Ulu, beadwork
depicting human and other ‘high-class’ motif can only be adorned on
the apparels, hats and baby carriers of the upper class. Beads are also
used for cultural and ceremonial purposes. Foreign collectors are
beginning to consider Borneo as a source for these rare beads.
There is also a growing trend for these ethnic beads to be designed
and worn with trendy outfit